Fire leveled a home automotive workshop Thursday morning in eastern Forsyth County.

The blaze occurred about 10:45 a.m. behind a home on Samples Road, near Buford Dam Road and not far from Lake Lanier.

The incident triggered several 911 calls, with reports of explosions and a large column of black smoke, said Div. Chief Jason Shivers of the Forsyth County Fire Department.

“The home itself received only minor heat-exposure damage, but the workshop is likely going to be a total loss,” he said.

The two-story shop contained cars and equipment, which Shivers said contributed to the challenges in fighting the flames, as well as the explosions overheard.

No one was in the shop at the time, and it’s not known what caused the fire, he said.

“It is under investigation,” he said. “Investigators on scene have already begun their initial investigation and questioning of witnesses.”

Samples Road was closed in both directions for several hours to allow for access to the water supply.

No one was injured in the blaze.