The grieving son of a woman who was savaged to death by two XL bully dogs in her own home will stand trial accused of neglecting the animals before the fatal attack.

Angeline Mahal, 50, was viciously mauled at her property in Cornwall Close, Hornchurch, on May 20 last year. Armed police and paramedics rushed to the scene following a frantic 999 call at 1:12pm, where they found Ms Mahal with catastrophic injuries.

Inside the home, officers found two XL bully dogs — named Scarface and Bella — secured in a separate room. Despite desperate efforts to save her, Ms Mahal died of her wounds a short time later.

Now, her 26-year-old son, Rainveer Mahal, is facing criminal charges over the tragedy. He stands accused of failing to ensure the welfare of Scarface and Bella, and of possessing a fighting dog.

Appearing at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, May 1, Mr Mahal, who is of no fixed address, pleaded not guilty to all three charges.

It is alleged that he allowed the two dogs to live in squalid conditions and suffer unnecessarily. A vet who later examined the animals reportedly raised serious concerns about their health and wellbeing.

Mahal is due to return to the same court for trial in August, where he will face questions over his alleged failure to care for the powerful dogs properly before the horrifying incident that claimed his mother’s life.

The case has added fresh urgency to national debates about dangerous dog breeds, responsible ownership, and the devastating consequences when things go wrong.

XL bullies were officially added to the list of banned breeds in England and Wales earlier this year after a series of deadly attacks.